Orchards Academy, located in Swanley, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 1 and 2, 2021. The school is characterized by a small, welcoming environment where pupils feel safe, cared for, and valued. The relationships between staff and students are built on mutual respect, fostering a sense of community. Pupils express pride in their school, highlighting its unique atmosphere and the supportive nature of their peers.
The leadership team and teachers at Orchards Academy maintain high aspirations for all students. The calm and focused atmosphere in classrooms allows pupils to engage productively with their learning. Students are enthusiastic about their education and are encouraged to share their knowledge and ideas, which helps them develop confidence and resilience. The school promotes inclusivity, with pupils acting as ambassadors for their community, demonstrating care for one another and understanding of diverse cultures and faiths.
Leaders are committed to the personal development of pupils, ensuring they receive a well-rounded education. The curriculum has been improved to cover a broad range of subjects, with leaders identifying key knowledge for pupils to learn in a structured manner. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in subjects like geography and art, where the planning is not as thorough, leading to gaps in pupils' understanding.
Teachers at Orchards Academy utilize their strong subject knowledge to present information clearly and effectively. They recognize the importance of practice in learning, which pupils appreciate as it aids retention of key content. Staff are well-trained to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring these students receive the necessary assistance to thrive academically.
The school environment promotes mutual respect and tolerance, with pupils demonstrating kindness and a clear understanding of fairness. Classrooms are calm and purposeful, with students showing positive attitudes towards their learning. Pupils take pride in their achievements and the work they produce.
Orchards Academy offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities, including visits to theaters and historical sites, which enhance the educational experience. Pupils engage in eco-projects that raise awareness about environmental issues, and they enjoy taking on leadership roles within the school community.
The school has maintained strong communication with Year 11 pupils, providing ongoing support and guidance as they transition to the next stage of their education. The staff's commitment to supporting vulnerable pupils is evident, ensuring they receive the necessary resources and advice.
The culture within the school is one of collaboration and teamwork, with leaders striving to support and value all staff members. High morale among staff is noted, with leaders actively working to reduce unnecessary workloads.
Safeguarding measures at Orchards Academy are effective, with a strong culture of safety embedded throughout the school. Staff are trained to identify and report concerns, ensuring that pupils receive the support they need. Pupils feel confident that their concerns will be addressed, and they are educated on how to keep themselves safe in various contexts.
While the school has many strengths, it is essential for leaders to refine the curriculum in certain subjects to ensure all pupils acquire the necessary knowledge for their future education. Overall, Orchards Academy continues to provide a supportive and effective learning environment for its students.
